Head of Residential Life

The Aga Khan Academy is seeking a Head of Residential Life to oversee its residential program. This full-time, residential role is focused on the overall welfare, growth, and social-emotional health of residential students in Grades 6 through 12, while effectively managing staff and resources. As an integral member of the Senior Leadership Team, this position reports directly to the Head of Academy. The Head of Residential Life will be responsible for the daily management and operational oversight of the Academy’s residential life, ensuring a safe, structured, and enriching environment for all students. This role is crucial in fostering a sense of community, well-being, and personal growth within the residences.

As part of a global network of schools, the Academy provides high-quality education to students across the Global South, empowering them to become leaders capable of making a positive difference in their communities. The Head of Residential Life will significantly contribute to promoting the Academy’s core values and ethos.

Key Responsibilities:

Student Well-Being & Residential Experience

• Foster a safe, welcoming, and supportive atmosphere that promotes student well-being and personal development.
• Oversee the daily operations of the student residences, ensuring a safe, structured, and engaging living environment.
• Monitor the well-being and development of students, proactively addressing their social, emotional, and academic needs.
• Work collaboratively with other staff to resolve student issues, including homesickness, safety concerns, and personal challenges.
• Maintain effective communication with parents regarding their children's well-being and progress.

Student Leadership & Engagement

• Facilitate student-led initiatives, community-building activities, and cultural events that encourage inclusivity and engagement.
• Promote student involvement in menu planning alongside the Food Services Manager and Menu Committee.
• Partner with the Deputy Head of Academy to enhance student autonomy by reviewing policies on curfews, electronic devices, and weekend schedules appropriately for their age.

Residential Staff Leadership & Development

• Recruit, train, manage, and evaluate the team of residential staff.
• Provide ongoing training for residential staff focusing on student engagement, communication skills, and conflict resolution techniques.
• Foster strong relationships between dormitory parents and students, ensuring staff act as mentors and facilitators.

Programme Implementation & Operational Oversight

• Ensure the effective operation of residential facilities in collaboration with relevant teams for maintenance, security, and student safety.
• Oversee health and safety procedures, ensuring adherence to national and international boarding regulations.
• Manage budget planning and resource allocation.

Discipline, Safety & Pastoral Support

• Implement student behavior policies and manage discipline in line with the Academy’s restorative and educational philosophy.
• Lead meetings with residence, counseling, and other teams to ensure a cohesive approach to student support.

General Expectations & Reporting

• Ensure all residential programs reflect the Academy’s values.
• Collaborate with academic and administrative staff to create a seamless experience for students between residential and school life.
• Act as a liaison between student representatives and senior leadership, ensuring student concerns are effectively addressed.
• Supervise health and safety compliance in residential areas, adhering to safeguarding and student welfare policies.
• Provide regular updates and consultations to the Senior Leadership Team to align strategic goals with daily operations.

Qualifications & Experience:

• A bachelor’s degree in education, psychology, social work, or a related field (a master’s degree is preferred).
• At least five years of leadership experience in a boarding school or residential setting.
• Strong understanding of student development and residential life.

Apply via the WhatSchool platform.